Drema Deòraich’s Fallen is a rich, immersive dive into a world where political intrigue, personal destiny, and deeply entrenched traditions collide. At its heart is Alira, a character caught between duty and defiance, burdened with a power she barely understands. As she navigates the shifting alliances and betrayals of her people, she unearths secrets that change not only her fate but that of an entire civilization. The novel is an intricate blend of sci-fi world-building and personal struggle, told through gripping prose and a keen eye for character depth.

The alien culture of the unammi is layered, full of history and social nuance, with a linguistic and political structure that feels real. From the moment Alira steps into the ruins of her past, determined to carve out her own path, I was hooked. The way Deòraich weaves the past into the present through Alira’s inherited memories and the revelations they bring, creates an eerie sense of inevitability. This is a story about identity and the weight of history pressing down on the present.

The writing itself is a highlight. Deòraich has a knack for sensory detail, making every scene vivid. The dialogue is sharp, with political conversations layered with double meanings and personal confrontations charged with emotion. One of my favorite moments comes when Alira, pushing past the resistance of her elders, insists on following the path she knows she must take, even as it leads her to terrifying truths about her lineage. Her growth from an uncertain idealist to a hardened survivor is nothing short of gripping.

The depth of the world, while impressive, can feel overwhelming at times, especially as new terms and cultural nuances pile up. However, the payoff is worth it. As the layers of deception unravel and Alira gains control over her fate, the story reaches a crescendo that left me both satisfied and eager for more.

I would recommend Fallen to readers who love immersive science fiction with strong character arcs. If you enjoy the political intrigue of Dune, the cultural depth of The Broken Earth trilogy, or the existential questions of The Left Hand of Darkness, this book will resonate with you.

Pages: 478 | ASIN: B0CYYPLWGW